Modibbo Farakwai, president of Team New Nigeria (TNN), has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of deliberately delaying the registration of the new political party. Speaking in Abuja, Farakwai outlined the party’s plans to consolidate political structures and grassroots networks as it positions itself for the 2027 elections.
Addressing supporters during a speech titled “Beyond registration: Consolidating our numerical strength and strategic partnerships for 2027,” Farakwai described the party’s journey as a “marathon for the resilient, the visionary, and the brave.” He announced the inauguration of several committees, including the National Political Engagement Committee (NPEC), Nationwide Reliability Network Committee (NRNC), National Policy and Intellectual Engagement Committee (NPIEC), and the National Conference Organising Committee, as well as mobilisation directorates for women, youths, students, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Farakwai said TNN has met all constitutional and statutory requirements for registration but is yet to receive approval from INEC. “Fellow compatriots, we must speak the unvarnished truth about our political reality. We have fulfilled every constitutional requirement and met every statutory obligation for registration. Yet, we sit here today facing an inexplicable delay from INEC,” he said. He suggested the delay was a deliberate tactic by the political establishment, claiming the authorities fear the movement’s reach across the country.
Warning that TNN would not be constrained by bureaucratic delays, Farakwai stated that the movement may contest elections through alternative political platforms if registration is further withheld. “A political party is not a piece of paper in an Abuja office; a political party is the collective heartbeat of the people. Whether we arrive on the ballot as a registered party or as the soul of a formidable coalition, the result will be the same. The 43 million will be heard. Our numbers are the only mandate we need,” he declared.
The TNN president also revealed that talks are underway with existing political parties for possible coalition arrangements. He stressed that the party is open to partnerships that respect its vision and principles. “We are not seeking a merger of convenience, but a coalition of purpose. Team New Nigeria is ready to work with any political platform that honours our values and is willing to rebuild this nation based on equity, justice, and competence,” Farakwai said.
